When someone else's careless or reckless actions lead to the loss of a loved one, the pain is overwhelming—and the legal aftermath can feel just as confusing. At Freeburn Law, we help families in Johnstown and throughout Cambria County understand their rights after a wrongful death. Whether your case involves a tragic car crash, a workplace accident, or a fatal medical mistake, our goal is to help you pursue the justice and compensation your family deserves.
Understanding Wrongful Death Claims in Pennsylvania
A wrongful death lawsuit is a legal claim brought when someone dies due to another party’s negligence or misconduct. These cases aren’t just about financial recovery—they’re about accountability, closure, and easing the burden a sudden loss can cause.
Common causes of wrongful death in the Johnstown area include:
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Deadly motor vehicle accidents on U.S. Route 219 or PA-56
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Unsafe conditions at construction sites or industrial facilities
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Medical malpractice or surgical errors at local hospitals
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Falls or other accidents on poorly maintained property
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Dangerous or defective consumer products
The legal process can feel daunting, especially when you’re still grieving. That’s why we take the time to walk every client through what to expect and what their options are.
Who Has the Right to File a Wrongful Death Case?
In Pennsylvania, the personal representative (executor) of the deceased person’s estate is the one who must file the claim—but the financial compensation is for the benefit of close family members. If no claim is filed within six months of the death, eligible beneficiaries can then bring the claim themselves.
Those eligible to recover damages typically include:
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Spouses
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Children
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Parents of the deceased
If you were financially or emotionally dependent on your loved one, it’s worth speaking with an attorney about your rights.
What Can a Wrongful Death Lawsuit Cover?
These cases are meant to help surviving families recover from the economic and emotional impact of the loss. Compensation can include:
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Medical bills related to the injury or illness that caused the death
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Funeral and burial expenses
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Lost wages and future earnings
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Loss of household support, care, and guidance
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Emotional distress and loss of companionship
Our legal team works with investigators, experts, and financial analysts to help families secure full and fair compensation under the law.
Why It’s Important to Act Quickly
Pennsylvania law has a two-year deadline (statute of limitations) for filing a wrongful death lawsuit. But waiting too long can make it harder to collect the evidence needed for a strong case—things like security camera footage, accident reports, or medical records can become difficult to access.
Speaking with a wrongful death lawyer early can help ensure your family’s rights are preserved while you focus on healing.
Legal Help Rooted in Local Experience
Freeburn Law has been helping families across central and western Pennsylvania for decades. We understand the local court systems, insurance tactics, and what it takes to build a solid case here in Johnstown. Clients choose us because:
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We have over 40 years of combined experience
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We provide personal attention—your case is never handed off
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We travel to clients’ homes or hospitals when needed
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There are no upfront costs—we work on a contingency fee basis
We’re here to ease the legal stress and give you space to focus on your family.
Supporting Families in Johnstown and Beyond
Our team represents grieving families across Cambria County and surrounding areas, including:
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Johnstown
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Richland
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Westmont
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Ebensburg
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Windber
Whether your loved one was hurt in a car crash or passed away after a long hospital stay, we’re ready to listen, help you understand your options, and guide you through what comes next.
Speak with a Johnstown Wrongful Death Attorney Today
Losing a loved one is one of the hardest things anyone can go through—especially when it could have been prevented. If you’re wondering whether you have a case or just need help navigating your next steps, we’re here to support you. Call today for a free consultation. We can meet in person, by phone, or via video call—whatever works best for your family. At Freeburn Law, we don’t charge legal fees unless we recover money for you.
FAQ: Wrongful Death Lawsuits in Johnstown, PA
What qualifies as a wrongful death?
Any death caused by another person’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional actions may be considered wrongful. Common examples include fatal car crashes, unsafe job site conditions, medical malpractice, or defective products.
What is the difference between a wrongful death claim and a survival action?
A wrongful death claim compensates surviving family members for their loss, while a survival action is filed on behalf of the deceased’s estate for damages the deceased would have been entitled to if they had survived (such as pain and suffering before death).
Is there a time limit to file a wrongful death lawsuit in Pennsylvania?
Yes. You have two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit. It's best to speak with a lawyer as early as possible to avoid losing your chance to file.
How much does it cost to hire a wrongful death lawyer?
At Freeburn Law, we work on a contingency fee basis. That means there are no upfront costs, and we only get paid if we win your case.
Can I file a claim if I wasn’t financially dependent on the deceased?
Possibly. While economic dependency often strengthens a claim, spouses, children, and parents can still pursue damages for emotional loss, companionship, and guidance, even if they were not financially reliant.
Contact Freeburn Law now for a free consultation - No win, no fee – you don’t pay unless we recover for you.
